Preparations were underway in Taiwan on Saturday as Typhoon Nesat threatens the country's eastern coast.

Big waves were seen lashing the shore of nearby Yilan port city, where fishermen tightened their boats.

Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau said Typhoon Nesat is expected to make landfall across eastern coast of Taiwan Saturday evening.

The bureau has issued a land warning for Typhoon Nesat on Friday, cautioning residents in eastern and southeastern Taiwan to be prepared for heavy rain and strong winds.

Several airlines have announced cancellations or schedule changes due to typhoon approaching.

Taiwan Railways said the train schedules for their eastern main line have been suspended.

According to the weather bureau, Nesat was located 230 kilometres off Taiwan's eastern coast, moving at a speed of 18 kilometres per hour.

It has maximum sustained winds of 137 kilometres per hour, with gusts reaching 173 kilometres per hour.